LITTLE ROCK (AP) — Dozens of doctors from around Arkansas say they're supporting a proposal that would make the state the first in the South to legalize medical marijuana.

Arkansans for Compassionate Care on Thursday released a list of 79 doctors from around the state who support the proposed initiated act on next week's ballot. The measure would allow patients with qualifying conditions to buy marijuana from nonprofit dispensaries with a doctor's recommendation.

The group announced the doctors' support at a news conference that featured Steve Jenison, chair of the New Mexico Medical Cannabis Advisory Board. Jenison said Arkansas' proposal closely mirrors New Mexico's medical marijuana law.

Another group of doctors last week announced their opposition to the proposed act.

Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have legalized medical marijuana in some form.